Rug display system

ABSTRACT

A rug clip for use in a rug display system includes a gripping member having first gripping elements, a biasing member having second gripping elements overlying at least a portion of the gripping member and a clamping member overlying at least a portion of the biasing member.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This continuation-in-part application claims the benefit of U.S.Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 10/744,289, filed on Dec.23, 2003, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-Provisionalapplication Ser. No. 10/269,585, filed Oct. 11, 2002.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to systems for displaying rugs, and moreparticularly to rug display systems comprising a plurality of framesrotatably supported on a display surface for enabling convenient andfull view display of products.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The typical consumer of rugs desires to view the entire rug prior topurchase. With larger sizes of area rugs, display and access to fullview inspection is often space prohibitive. Rugs may be displayed on asurface stacked on one another. However, due to the size and weight ofmost rugs, the rugs are often difficult to maneuver, and thus, do notallow the consumer to conveniently obtain a complete view of the frontand back sides of the rug.

Heretofore, it has been known to display rugs with hanging assemblies,wherein the rugs are supported in hanging relation by a plurality ofrotatable rug hangers and movable toward and away from each other so asto allow a consumer to obtain a view of the rug. More particularly, ithas been known to display rugs with a cantilevered pivot type systemknown as the “swing arm.” The swing arm includes a fabricated bargenerally extending the width of the rug and is welded to a pivot highabove the display floor. The rug is secured to the fabricated bar byclamp-style clips so that the rug can hang down toward the floor. Thefabricated bars are themselves generally pivoted from a relatively largeoutboard structure mounted to the floor and having base membersextending in various directions adjacent to the floor to providestability to an overall structure having much of its movement, weightand stress near the top, high above the floor. In order to view each rugdisplayed by such a swing arm system, the customer tugs on the rug,thereby pivoting the fabricated bar and rug in one direction to view thenext rug in the display.

The present invention recognizes and addresses some of the problems withsuch swing arm systems. First, the present invention recognizes that theswing arm systems are very large and inherently unstable. The weight ofthe fabricated bars holding the rugs high above the floor requires arelatively large and obtrusive superstructure and base, naturallyincreasing the size, cost, assembly and space requirements for suchstructures. Accordingly, there is a desire for improved rug displaysystems supported on a display surface while utilizing a minimum amountof floor space required.

Second, the present invention recognizes that it is difficult to attachand detach rugs to the swing arm system as the fabricated bar from whichthe rugs hang in swing arm systems is located a substantial distanceabove the floor. Moreover, the fabricated bar is generally not removablefrom the outboard structure to allow a clerk to mount the rug to thefabricated bar while on the floor. Thus, more than one clerk is oftenneeded to balance and raise the rug while securing the rug to thefabricated bar high above the floor. Accordingly, there is a desire forrug display systems providing a configuration so that a rug can be moreeasily and conveniently secured to or removed from the rug displaysystems.

Also, the present invention recognizes that swing arm systems can allowand even cause damage to the rugs displayed from the systems due, inpart, to the method of operation and display provided by the swing armsystem. For example, consumers wishing to view a rug displayed fromswing arm systems are required to pull on the bottom of the hanging rugin order to rotate the swing arm to see the next rug in the displayrack. This tugging action puts undue stresses on the rug and theattachment clamps holding the rug to the swing arm. Such stress canresult in the rug being removed from the swing arm and/or damaged as theclamps dig into the rug or the rug is essentially ripped away from theclamps on the fabricated bar. In addition, as the swing arm system doesnot provide an easily accessible surface to display pertinent salesinformation concerning the rug, vendors must pin or tag (e.g., bypiercing) the pertinent sales information to the back of the rug. Often,information pinned to the rug can fall off. Moreover, pinning or taggingcan damage the rug and/or be ripped off of the rug in use. Accordingly,there is a desire for rug display systems that can display rugs andpertinent advertising information conveniently and without damaging therugs.

In addition, as mentioned, the outboard structure of swing arm systemsis generally very large making it difficult (physically and technically)to assemble, disassemble and ship. Quite often, swing arm systemsrequire skilled construction crews and special equipment to deliver andassemble the systems. Accordingly, there is a desire for rug displaysystems with a minimal base structure capable of being easily assembled,disassembled and shipped.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, the present invention is intended to address and obviateproblems and shortcomings and otherwise improve previous rug displaysystems. More particularly, it is one object of the present invention toprovide rug display systems comprising a plurality of frames supportedon a display surface which provides improved and full view access todisplayed rugs.

To achieve the foregoing and other objects and in accordance with theexemplary embodiments of the present invention, rug display systemsherein comprise a base having a plurality of upwardly extending postsand a frame comprising a front, top and rear section. At least a portionof the frame is configured to be rotatably mounted on one of the posts,and a front support member is attached to the frame adjacent the frontsection and configured to movably support the frame on a display surfacein use.

To still further achieve the foregoing and other objects of the presentinvention, improved rug clips for use in the rug display system comprisea channel-shaped bracket including a top leg, a bottom leg, and aconnecting member. The connecting member biases the top leg toward thebottom leg.

To further achieve the foregoing and other objects of the presentinvention, improved rug clips for use in the rug display system may alsocomprise a gripping member having oppositely disposed gripping elementsand a biasing member having a first and second top leg. The biasingmember may be mounted over at least a portion of the gripping membersuch that one of the first and second top legs is each biased toward adifferent one of the oppositely disposed gripping elements.

To yet further achieve the foregoing and other objects in accordancewith other exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a packagingsystem for shipping a plurality of rug display system frames comprises acrate having a frame cradle positioned along the upper and lowerproximate and distal horizontal edges of the crate. A plurality ofspaced recesses is formed in each cradle. Corresponding recesses of theframe cradles are positioned on the upper and lower horizontal edges ofthe crate in a predetermined alignment to receive and maintain theplurality of frames within the crate in a predetermined spacedorientation relative to one another.

To even further achieve the foregoing and other objects in accordancewith additional exemplary embodiments of the present invention, apackaging system for shipping an at least partially assembled rugdisplay system having a base and a plurality of frames rotatably mountedon the base, comprises a front section assembly. The front sectionassembly includes a first securing member positioned on top of thebottom sections of the rug display frames adjacent the front sectionsand a second securing member positioned below the bottom sections of theframes. The bottom sections of the frames are secured between the firstand second securing members. The packaging system further comprises arear section securing member positioned to secure the base to at leastone of the frames for transportation as a unit.

Still other embodiments, combinations, advantages and objects of thepresent invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art fromthe following descriptions wherein there are shown and describedalternative exemplary embodiments of this invention for illustrationpurposes. As will be realized, the invention is capable of otherdifferent aspects, objects and the embodiments all without departingfrom the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the drawings, objects, anddescription should be regarded as illustrative and exemplary in natureonly and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing outand distinctly claiming the present invention, it is believed that thesame will be better understood from the following description taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an exemplary rug display systemaccording to the present invention with all but one of the framesomitted for the purpose of clarity, and illustrating a frame mounted toa base;

FIG. 2 is a close-up perspective view of an exemplary base of thepresent invention;

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a partially assembled (i.e., norug frames shown) exemplary rug display system according to the presentinvention illustrating multiple accessories contemplated by the presentinvention;

FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of an alternative embodiment of aframe of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a partial bottom plan view of an exemplary front supportmember and front support member bumper of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary rug display system made inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a rear bottom perspective view of an exemplary rug clip foruse in a rug display system in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a rear side perspective view of the rug clip of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of an exemplary frame according tothe present invention illustrating a plurality of rug hangers positionedon the frame for facilitating hanging a rug thereon;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary packaging system forshipping a plurality of rug display system frames in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 11 a is a partially broken out perspective view of an exemplarypackaging system for shipping rug display systems in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 11 b is an exploded view of the front section assembly of theexemplary packaging system illustrated in FIG. 11 a;

FIG. 11 c is an exploded view of the rear section assembly of theexemplary packaging system illustrated in FIG. 11 a;

FIG. 12 is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a rug clipmade in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the rug clip of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a rug clipmade in accordance with the present invention; and

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the rug clip of FIG. 14.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Referring to the drawing figures in detail, wherein like numeralsindicate the same elements throughout the drawing figures, FIG. 1illustrates a rug display system 20 with a single frame 32 mounted to abase 40. In this example, the frame 32 is generally rectangular in shapeand comprises a top section 36 connected to a front section 34 and arear section 38. In another embodiment, the frame 32 might be configuredin any variety of shapes including, but not limited to a square. Theframe 32 may be sized according to the size of the rugs intended to bedisplayed. Any shape which can be pivoted on a base 40 and supportedwith a front support member 52 (e.g., wheel 54), can be provided asappropriate. For example, the frame may be sized approximately 9′×12′ todisplay full size rugs, or approximately 6′×9′ or 5′×8′ to display basicrugs, approximately 4′×6′ to display throw rugs, 2′×4′ to displayscatter rugs and/or 2′×8′ to display runner rugs.

Moreover, as a result of the spaced relationship between adjacentlymounted frames, a rug can be mounted to a frame narrower than the rugwith the excess width of the rug fitting between the rear sections ofadjacent frames between adjacent posts 48. As will be understood, thepivoting of adjacent frames on spaced posts 48 explained further belowallows portions of supported rugs to extend rearwardly through gapsbetween adjacent posts without interference in use. This facilitateseven more leeway to the retailer on rug size variations, and simplifiesrug display and system maintenance. Furthermore, the frames 32 maycomprise a plurality of shapes to display round, oval or odd shaped rugsas well. As the rear section (e.g., 38) of a frame 32 may be configuredto mount to a post 48 of a base 40 regardless of the shape or size ofthe frame, it is possible to provide a rug display system 20 with aplurality of frames 32 in a variety of shapes and sizes.

As further described below, the frame 32 can be advantageously providedin the form of a unified structure comprising various pieces of steeltubing and steel posts welded or otherwise secured together. Forexample, if desired, the frame 32 may be constructed of various piecesof steel, plastic, aluminum, composite or other sturdy tubing and postsfastened together by any conventional fastening means so that thedisplay system 20 can be broken down for transportation or storage.

In one embodiment, the front section 34 and rear section 38 might beprovided in the form of 18 gauge powder coated steel tubing. Inaddition, the top section 36 might be comprised of 11 gauge powdercoated steel post. In another embodiment, the front section 34, topsection 36 and rear section 38 may be comprised of any combination ofposts and/or tubing constructed from any combination of steel, plastic,composite, aluminum and/or any other appropriately strong and durablesubstance.

In FIG. 1, the front section 34 of the exemplary frame 32 is shown asincluding a front support member 52 positioned adjacent the bottomportion of the front section 34. In another embodiment, a bottom section(e.g., see section 131 of FIG. 4) may be mounted between the rearsection 38 and the front section 34 and provide for attachment of thefront support member 52 thereto. Other cross-members or supports couldalso be provided to frame 32 to augment its rigidity and strength asdeemed appropriate.

In the examples illustrated, the front support member 52 comprises afront support member roller or wheel 54, an axle (see axle 140 in FIG.5) and bracket assembly (not shown) for mounting the front supportmember arrangement adjacent to the front section 34 of the frame 32.This assembly could be provided as a relatively standard casterarrangement commonly available in the industry. In another embodiment,the front support member 52 may include a roller ball or other lowfriction moving support arrangement extending from the bottom of frame32 and configured to moveably support the front section 34 of the frame32 on a display surface. In still another embodiment, the front supportmember 52 may include a plastic (e.g., Teflon) or fiberglass body orother such friction minimizing interface affixed to the bottom of frame32 (e.g., adjacent to the front section 34) and configured to moveablysupport the front section 34 of the frame 32 on a display surface. As anexample, a front support member wheel 54 might be constructed of hardpolyolefin in order to withstand wear from rigid surfaces. In anotherembodiment, the front support member 52 may be constructed from anymaterial suited for support of the weight of the frame and displayedrugs and smooth rotation about a display surface.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the top section 36 of the exemplary frame 32includes a first set of rug clips 60 mounted to the frame 32. Asdiscussed later, the rug clips 60 are configured to secure a rug to theframe 32 of the rug display system 20. If desired, a second set of rugclips (e.g., 60 a) can be mounted to the opposite side (back side) ofthe top section 38 so that rugs may be secured and displayed on theopposite side of the frame 32. As described later, the rug clips 60 and60 a may be mounted at any position along frame 32 depending on the sizeand shape of the rug and/or vendor preferences.

Referring more specifically to FIG. 2, an expanded view of an exemplarybase 40 of FIG. 1 is illustrated. The rear section 38 of the frame 32 isto be mounted onto a post 48 extending upwardly from the base 40. In oneembodiment, the base 40 comprises a lower base plate 42, an upper baseplate 44 and a plurality of posts 48. The lower base plate 42 and upperbase plate 44 might be generally elongated, flat sheets of steel. In oneembodiment, the posts 48 might be welded to the lower base plate 42. Theupper base plate 44 may include a plurality of apertures correspondingto the posts 48 that are welded to the lower base plate 42. Theplurality of posts 48 engage the plurality of apertures on the upperbase plate 44 thereby allowing the upper base plate 44 to be positionedin a spaced relationship to the lower base plate 42. In one embodiment,the upper base plate 44 might be positioned approximately 2″ from thelower base plate 42 leaving about 16″ of post 48 above the upper baseplate 44 for mounting of a frame 32 thereto

Once the upper base plate 44 is at its desired position, it is thenwelded to the plurality of posts 48. While upper base plate 44 may beoptional, it can advantageously help keep the adjacent posts 48 straightand appropriately spaced, can add to the strength and rigidity of base40 and posts 48, and can facilitate fabrication (e.g., welding) of theposts 48 onto base plate 42. For example, it might be preferred to weldthe posts 48 to base plates 42 and 44 in the space between the plates sothat the bottom of plate 42 (which will face the display surface orfloor) and the top of plate 44 (which will be closest to the rotatingparts of frame 32) can be kept smooth and clear of weld spatter and thelike.

In one exemplary embodiment, posts 48 might be configured so that aframe 32 can be rotatably mounted on any one of such posts, as desired.For example, rear section 38 can be provided in the form of a tube, orotherwise comprise a substantially hollow portion at its lower end. Theinner diameter of the hollow portion of rear section 38 might correspondwith and be slightly greater than the outer diameter of the posts 48 ofthe base 40. The difference between the inner diameter of the frame 32and the outer diameter of the posts 48 might be such that the frictionbetween the rear section 38 of the frame 32 and the posts 48 isminimized to allow the frame 32 to be supported by and rotated about theposts 48 without much effort. For example, the inner diameter of therear section 38 of the frame may be 1½ in., whereas the outer diameterof the post 48 may be 1¼ in. Thus, in such embodiment, the rear section38 of the frame 32 can rotatably fit over the post 48 of the base 40.

Grease or another conventional lubricant may be placed either on theposts 48 or within the bottom portion of the rear section 38 of theframe 32 in order to achieve desired friction between the rear section38 of the frame 32 and the posts 48. In another embodiment, anyarrangement of bushings/ball bearings might be effectively locatedadjacent the interface of the rear section 38 of the frame 32 and thepost 48 to facilitate desired rotation of the frame 32 relative to thepost 48.

The upper base plate 44 also provides a resting or support surface onbase 40 for the frame 32. In addition, the upper base plate 44 addsstrength to the base 40 as the posts 48 are rigidified with each otherand base plates 42 and 44, and spacing and upright orientation of posts48 is further rigidly fixed. As previously stated, in one embodiment,the distance between the lower base plate 42 and the upper base plate 44in an exemplary rug display arrangement might be approximately 2″, butcould be easily adapted according to a desired application, post sizingand spacing, weight of articles to be displayed, materials used, andother variables. For example, the height of upper base plate 44 canadvantageously correspond the pivot height of rear section 38 on base 40with the height of front support member 52 (e.g., a caster wheel orother movable support arrangement). If the upper base plate 44 isabsent, more attention to clean attachment of posts 48 to plate 42 mightbe required, as the pivot support surface would be plate 42. In anotherembodiment, additional upper base plates 44 can be added to furtherstrengthen the base 40.

Still referring to FIG. 2, the lower base plate 42 may include aplurality of apertures 46 configured to accept a fastener for securingthe base 40 to a horizontal display surface (e.g., a concrete floor).The base 40 may be secured to a horizontal display surface by anyconventional screw or bolt, including, but not limited to, lag screws,anchor bolts or power driven fasteners. Access to the apertures 46 ofthe lower base plate 42 with a drill, tools or fasteners may be mademore convenient by providing access cutouts 47. The cutouts 47 maycomprise a semi-circle cut into a portion of the upper base plate 44 andmay be positioned over and slightly larger than the apertures 46 in thelower base plate 42. While the base 40 in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 6 can be secured to a display surface, it is understood that thebase 40 may stand alone on a surface without being secured to thedisplay surface. Such an arrangement might be desired where the displayis to be mobile or otherwise easily moveable within a display area.

The embodiment of FIG. 2 illustrates an elongated base 40 with sixteenposts 48 arranged in a line extending the length of the lower base plate42 and upper base plate 44. It is possible that the layout of thedisplay surface may require a rug display system 20 configured to fitwithin certain space requirements. Accordingly, in another embodiment,the base may comprise more or less than sixteen vertically extendingposts 48, and therefore, have more or less than sixteen frames 32. Inaddition, as discussed later, the base 40 may comprise two rows of posts48 arranged in two lines extending the length of the base 40 so that anumber of accessories may be mounted to the base 40. The posts of suchtwo row embodiments may be staggered or aligned, and/or may havevariable spacings relative to adjacent posts, as desired. Moreover, thearrangement of posts 48 on base plate 42 need not be in a straight line,as arcuate or angular arrangement may be desired for some applications.Also, the base may comprise a variety of shapes including, but notlimited to linear, a semi-circle, a full circle, an L-shape, a 45°angle, etc. Such arrangements can be achieved by manipulating the shapesof the lower and upper base plates 42 and 44. In addition, theappearance of the rug display system 20 may be manipulated by weldingthe plurality of posts 48 to the lower base plate 42 in a staggeredarrangement and providing an appropriate upper base plate 44accordingly.

Also, it should be understood that while FIG. 2 illustrates a singleexemplary base, a plurality of bases may be locked, welded or otherwiseconnected together (e.g. FIG. 3), either temporarily or permanently, toform a unified base capable of supporting any number of frames 32 in avariety of arrangements. Because the system of the present invention isalso modular in nature, it is contemplated that frames can be used onvarious bases, bases can be easily arranged in a display layout (e.g.,substantially straight line, U-shaped, L-shaped, circular, etc.), andthe setup and function of the frames and bases can be mixed and matchedto accommodate a wide variety of display needs.

Another feature of the present invention is that a variety ofaccessories can also be selectively mounted to the base 40 of the rugdisplay system. Referring to FIG. 3, for example, three exemplaryaccessories, namely an accessory display assembly 90, a light pole 98and a spacer or divider 100, are shown mounted to a base 140. The base140 in this example might be comprised of forty-eight posts 148 arrangedin a line extending the length of the base 140. However, as previouslydiscussed, the base 140 may comprise a variety of shapes and sizes. Inaddition, the base 140 may comprise two rows with any number posts 148arranged in two lines extending the length of the base 140, wherein onerow may be used for mounting frames and the other row may be used formounting accessories.

An example of an accessory display assembly 90 is shown as including twovertically extending poles 92, two extension arms 94 and a mounting bar96. Alternatively, and discussed, the accessory display assembly may becomprised simply of a single pole 92 with one or more of a plurality ofaccessories secured thereto. Each pole 92 can be mounted to a post 148of the base 140 in the same manner as the rear section of the framedescribed above. Poles 92 might be provided, for example, in the form of18 gauge powder coated steel tubing or any other appropriately strongand durable materials. The poles 92 may extend upwardly from the base140 any length including, but not limited to, the height of the rearsection of a frame, depending on the application and the particularfunction of the desired accessories.

The extension arms 94 may similarly be comprised of powder coated steeltube and post, or any other appropriately strong and durable substance.The tube and post may be secured together by welding or otherwisesecurely fastening the tube and post to a steel plate 93 configured toset the steel post at about a 135° angle relative to the steel tube. Thetubular portion of the extension arm 94 may be sized with a smallerdiameter than the diameter of the pole 92 so that each extension arm 94can be telescopingly mounted to a pole 92 by inserting the tubularportion of the extension arm 94 into the upper end of the pole 92, suchas in an overlapping friction fit arrangement know as a “swedge”. Thepost portion of the extension arm 94 may comprise a bracket 95 welded tothe distal end of the post and sized and shaped for securing a mountingbar 96 thereto. The mounting bar 96 may be comprised of powder steelcoated steel tubing and may be secured to the bracket 95 of the tubeportion of the extension arm 94 by any conventional fasting meansincluding, but not limited to metal screws.

Mounting bar 96 can be utilized to support any number of accessoriesincluding, for example, lights, banners, speakers and video/securitycameras. FIG. 3 illustrates an example where banner 97 is mounted to themounting bar 96 of the accessory display assembly by sliding themounting bar 96 through a pocket located on the rear of the banner 97,and then securing the ends of the mounting bar 96 to the brackets 95 ofthe extension arms 94. The banner 97 may be used to display decorations,pertinent advertising or sales information.

It is understood that the accessory display assembly 90 of the presentinvention may comprise any combination of tubes or posts comprised ofsteel, plastic, composite, aluminum and/or any other appropriatelystrong and durable substance. Moreover, while the accessory displayassembly 90 illustrated in FIG. 3 may be comprised of modular componentssecured together, it is contemplated that the accessory display assembly90 may similarly be comprised of any component(s) capable of mounting toa base of the present invention and displaying an accessory therefrom,including but not limited to a single pole.

For example, FIG. 3 illustrates a light pole 98 comprising a standardpole 92 (described above) mounted to the base 140 at its proximal endand including a light 99 secured adjacent to the opposite or distal end.The light 99 may be used to illuminate the rugs displayed by the rugdisplay system, a banner on the mounting bar or the display areagenerally. In addition, any number of accessories may be secureddirectly to one pole 92 at any position along the pole 92 including, butnot limited to a banner, speaker, security camera, etc. If desired,rotation of a single pole about the post 148 of the base 140 may beprevented by providing a plate with an aperture (not shown) welded orotherwise secured to the pole 92. It is envisioned that as the pole 92is mounted to the post 48, such a plate might include a flange or otherportion which mounts over the adjacent post 148 and slides down adjacentthe upper base plate 144 or otherwise corresponds with a portion of anadjacent post 148. Therefore, the plate would function to substantiallyprevent the pole 92 from rotating about the post 148. Any number ofarrangements could similarly be implemented to prevent substantialrotation, such as a set screw or friction fit.

FIG. 3 also illustrates a divider 100 positioned near the middle of thebase 140. The divider 100 may be comprised of a generally U-shaped sheetof metal with two sleeves 101 (best seen in FIG. 11) located on backsideof the metal adjacent the bottom of the divider 100. The two sleeves 101slide over the base posts 148 to secure the divider 100 in uprightposition. It should be understood that the divider 100 may comprise avariety of shapes and sizes and may be secured to any number of baseposts 148 by any conventional means. The divider 100 may be used toseparate or space the rug display system into two or more viewingstations to enable more than one consumer to simultaneously viewdisplayed rugs. Absent the divider 100, it may be difficult for two ormore consumers to view rugs displayed on a single base section of therug display system as the consumers might be shifting frames incompeting directions. In addition, the divider 100 may be used todisplay pertinent advertising or sales information regarding the rugsdisplayed by the rug display system. As described above, due to thenovel design of the present invention, the rug display system is widelyadaptable, easily modified, and capable of displaying any combination ofrugs and accessories therefrom.

As previously described, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of asimple frame 32 structure in accordance with the present invention.However, frames for the rug display system of the present invention maybe customized or otherwise adapted in accordance with vendorpreferences. For example, frames may be sized or shaped according to thesize and/or shape of rugs intended to be displayed. Moreover, the framesmay optionally incorporate a number of features and accessoriesincluding, but not limited to those illustrated in the example of FIG. 4discussed below.

Referring to FIG. 4, an alternate embodiment of the frame 132 of FIG. 1is shown and illustrated. In this example, the frame 132 is generallyrectangular in overall shape, and comprises a front section 134, a topsection 136, a rear section 138, a bottom section 131, as well as acrossbar 133. As previously stated, the frame 132 can be provided in aunified structure comprising various pieces of steel tubing and steelposts welded or otherwise secured together. In one embodiment, the frontsection 134 and rear section 138 might be provided in the form of powdercoated steel tubing (e.g., 18 gauge), while the top section 136, bottomsection 131 and crossbar 133 might be comprised of slightly lighter(e.g., 11 gauge) powder coated steel post. It might be desired toprovide the front and/or rear sections as round tubes, while the othermembers might be more rectangular in shape to maximize their effectivethickness profile. In other embodiments, the front section 134, topsection 136, rear section 138, bottom section 131 and crossbar 133 maybe comprised of any combination of posts and/or tubing constructed fromany combination of steel, plastic, composite, aluminum and/or any otherappropriately strong and durable substance.

In addition, where larger frames 132 are desired (i.e. the vendordesires display of large, heavy rugs) and the weight of the framesincreases, it is contemplated that the frames 132 may be provided in theform of two or more pieces for convenient shipping and assembly. Forexample, in FIG. 4, the exemplary frame 132 may comprise an uppersection 133 a and a lower section 133 b configured to be telescopicallysecured to one another in assembled condition. More particularly,swedged tubes 139 with diameters less than the diameters of the rearsection 138 and the front section 134 of the frame 132 may be fittedwithin the rear section 138 and the front section 134 of the lowersection 133 b and/or welded thereto. The swedged tubes 139 may extendfrom the rear section 138 and the front section 134 of the lower section133 b any distance necessary for stabilized mounting of the uppersection 133 a thereto. The rear section 138 and the front section 134 ofthe upper section 133 a, having a diameter greater than the diameter ofthe swedged tubes 139 can be removably secured to the swedged tubes 139.In another embodiment, the swedged tubes 139 may be fitted within therear section 138 and the front section 134 of the upper section 133 aand/or welded thereto. Such a frame 132 can be easily assembled byplacing the base 40 on a display surface, mounting the lower section 133b to the post 48 of the base, and then mounting the upper section 133 aof the frame 132 to the swedged tubes 139 of the lower section 133 a ofthe frame 132.

Still referring to FIG. 4, the front section 134 of the exemplary frame132 includes a display sleeve 144 selectively mounted to the frame 132such as be screw or fastener attachment. The display sleeve 144 isconfigured to hold brochures, sales information and other advertisingmaterial relating to a particular rug or numerous rugs displayed. Thedisplay sleeve 144 can be made of any sturdy material such as plastic orsteel, and one or more sleeves 144 can be mounted at any location alongthe front section 134 of the frame 132. As illustrated in FIG. 4, thedisplay sleeve 144 may be comprised of a U-shaped sleeve 144 a that mayslide onto the front section 134 of the frame 132. The display sleeve144 may be secured to the front section by placing a sleeve cap 144 b onthe end of the U-shaped sleeve 144 a and inserting a bolt (not shown)through holes in the cap 144 b, the U-shaped sleeve 144 a and frontsection 134 of the frame 132, and then screwing a nut (not shown) to theend of the bolt. The display sleeve 144 itself might include a pocketfor receiving an information card, advertisement or the like. It iscontemplated that such a display sleeve 144 might be formed to includeperipheral gutters or tabs to hold information cards in place whileallowing substantial visual access and easy changeout of the cards bystore workers. Of course, the display sleeve 144 may comprise a varietyof shapes and sizes.

In one embodiment, the display sleeve 144 may be interchangeable with avariety of other display sleeves 144 including, but not limited todouble-sided display sleeves 144 which effectively wrap around frontsection 134 so as to allow different literature (if desired) to beplaced on the front side or backside of the display frame. The displaysleeve 144 provides the vendor an alternative to pinning or otherwiseattaching pertinent advertising information directly to the rugs.

The front section 134 of the exemplary frame 132 may also include one ormore grips or handles 146 for customers to grab in order to pivot theframe 132 from one position to another. The grip 146 can be positionedat any location along the front section 134 of the frame 132 and can bemade of a variety of materials including, but not limited to, plastic,rubber, foam, etc. Such grip 146 can also provide a visual cue tocustomers as to the most efficient place to manipulate the frame in use.

The front section 134 of the exemplary frame 132 may also include abumper 148. In one exemplary embodiment, the bumper comprises a bumperwheel or roller 150 rotatably secured adjacent to the front section 134of the frame 132, such as by a fastener 152. In use, an example bumper148 might comprise a wheel 150 about 3″ in diameter and constructed ofrubber. The fastener 152 may be a pin, a screw or any other conventionalfastening device which allows free rotation of the bumper wheel in use.In another embodiment, the bumper 148 might comprise a piece of plastic,rubber or any other conventional friction-minimizing interface mountedadjacent to the top of the frame 132. In use, the diameter of a rotatingbumper 148 should normally be greater than the width of the members ortubes making up the front section 134, top section 136, rear section138, bottom section 131 and crossbar 133 to minimize interference of twoframes during rotational display.

The provision of a bumper or similar arrangement serves multiplefunctions. First, such a bumper (e.g., 148) can prevent the componentsof adjacent frames (e.g. clips 60) from interfering contact with oneanother as adjacent frames are rotated on a base in use. For example, inone embodiment, when at least two adjacent frames 132 are simultaneouslymoved, the individual frames would normally contact one another. In sucha case, it will be understood that respective bumpers of adjacent frameswill contact one another and prevent other components (such as thehanger clips) of adjacent frames from contacting and/or interfering withone another. Of course, where the hanger clips are flush with the frame(e.g. see, FIGS. 12 and 13 discussed below), the bumper 148 may not beneeded because the hanger clips would not interfere with one another innormal and proper operation.

In addition, if the bumper is a wheel or other effectively low frictionarrangement, as respective bumpers 148 come into contact, they rotate orotherwise help smoothly guide both frames past one another throughouttheir pivot. In another embodiment, a plurality of bumper wheels 150 maybe disposed in the top section 136 of each frame 132 to smoothly guide aplurality of frames 132 throughout their pivot. Any bumper or spacingarrangement to ensure that adjacent frames do not catch or “hang up” onone another during rotation could be utilized.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the rear section 138 of the exemplary frame 32is illustrated as being pivotally mounted to a post 48 extendingupwardly from the base 40. As previously described, the rear section 138can be provided with a hollow lower portion having an inner diametercorresponding with, but slightly larger than the outer diameter of thepost 48 so that the rear section can be rotatably mounted to the post 48of the base 40. Furthermore, the rear section 138 may include a rotationbushing or protector 155 adjacent the bottom of section 138 which mightslide over the post 48 of the base 40 and rest on the upper base plate44 of the base 40. Protector 155 can be used to conceal the point ofrotation between the rear section 138 of the frame 132 and the posts 48of the base 40 to protect against pinching of the fingers, rug snags,etc. This protector 155 might also add strength to the lower portions ofrear section 138 and/or serve as a wear bushing to the area of rotationof frame 132 on a post 48 of the base 40. In one embodiment, theprotector 155 may comprise a generally flat washer welded to the bottomof the rear section 138. In another embodiment, this protector orbushing arrangement may include a bearing to aid the rear section 138 ofthe frame 132 in rotation about the post 48 of the base 40.

A ground wire 160 may be used to positively connect the rear section 138of the frame 132 to provide an electrical ground arrangement so as toreduce the potential build-up of static electricity as the frame 132pivots on base 40 and front support member 152 movably slides across thedisplay surface. Generally, if steel tubing is utilized for the frame,base posts and base, such a ground wire may be superfluous.

One or more crossbars 133 may be mounted to the frame 32 depending onthe number and size of rugs that a vendor wishes to display. Thecrossbar 133 can serve multiple functions. First, the crossbar mayprovide additional support for the frame and for rugs extending thelength of the frame 132. For example, if a customer pivots the frame ofFIG. 3 quickly to the left, a rug extending the length of the frame 132may tend to swing through and out the back of the frame 132 if acrossbar 133 is not present. In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 4, thecrossbar 133 may include a plurality of crossbar clips 60 c for mountingadditional rugs. For example, a first rug may be mounted to the topsection 136 of the frame 132 and extend down toward the crossbar 133 anda second rug may be mounted to the crossbar 133 and extend down towardthe bottom section 131. Therefore, it is envisioned that the rug displaysystem of the present invention is capable of displaying one or morerugs of a variety of shapes and sizes.

The bottom section 131 of the exemplary frame 132 may include a frontsupport member 152 mounted thereto. It is understood that multiplesupport members 152 can also be utilized with a frame of the presentinvention. As seen in FIG. 5, the support member 152 might comprise asupport member roller or wheel 154 and an axle 140. This assembly couldbe provided on a relatively standard caster arrangement commonlyavailable in the industry. In another embodiment, a support member 152may include a roller ball arrangement extending from the bottom of thefront section 134 or bottom section 131 and configured to moveablysupport the frame 132 on a display surface (e.g., floor). In stillanother embodiment, the support member 152 may include a plastic (e.g.,Teflon) or fiberglass body or other such friction minimizing interfaceaffixed to the bottom of the front section 134 or bottom section 131 andconfigured to moveably support the frame 132 on a display surface. As anexample, the front support member wheel 154 might be constructed of hardpolyolefin in order to withstand wear from rigid surfaces. The supportmember 152 may be constructed from any material suited for support ofthe weight of the frame and displayed rugs and smooth rotation about adisplay surface. If more than one support member is used, they can bespaced along the bottom of a frame as desired to appropriately movablysupport the weight of the frame and any attached rugs or the like on thedisplay surface.

As best seen in FIG. 5, the front support member 152 may similarlyinclude a deflector cover or guard 135 located adjacent the bottom offrame 132. Such a cover could be located near the bottom of the frontsection (e.g., 134), near the front of the bottom section (e.g., 131) oralong the underside 131 a of the bottom section 131 of frame 132, andmight advantageously effectively surround at least a portion of thefront support member 152 as illustrated in FIG. 5. The deflector 135serves a similar purpose as the bumper discussed above in that it canhelp minimize interference between adjacent frames during rotation.However, where a wheel, roller, caster or the like is utilized in thefront support member (e.g., 152), deflector 135 may also be configuredand located so as to ensure that such support member is substantiallyfree of obstructions which might prevent its free rotation or pivoting.As can be understood, interference with movement, rotation or directionchange of such front support member 152 could encumber the movement of aframe and/or make pivoting of the frame by a user less convenient andmore difficult.

Referring to FIG. 6, an exemplary rug display system 220 for displayinga variety of rugs on a display surface is shown and illustrated in use.The rug display system 220 of FIG. 1 is illustrated as comprising aplurality of frames 232 mounted to a base 40. In addition, each one ofthe plurality of frames 232 includes a front support member 252 tomoveably support each one of the plurality of frames 232 on a displaysurface 70 such as a showroom floor. As the plurality of frames 232 aresupported on the display surface 70 by the base 40 and by the frontsupport member 252, it will be understood that a great degree ofstability is achieved by the rug display system 220 of the presentinvention. Particularly, the weight of each frame 232 and rugs 110carried by that frame is supported by the base 40 and front supportmember 252 on the display floor. In contrast to swing arm and otherpreviously available display systems which had significant weight andstructure located high above the floor, the combination of the framewith its support base (e.g. 40) and appropriate front support member(e.g. 252) of the present invention allow for the weight of the systemand its displayed products to be kept low and supported directly on thedisplay surface.

As mentioned, the rugs 110 displayed by the rug display system 220 canbe of various sizes and shapes, and are secured to the frames 232 by aplurality of rug clips 60. For example, in FIG. 6, two rugs 110 a and110 b are shown as being secured to a single frame 232. A first rug 110a is mounted to the top section 236 of the frame 232 and extends towardthe crossbar section 233. A second rug 110 b is mounted to the crossbarsection 233 and extends to the bottom section 231 of the frame 232.

A customer may view the rug(s) 110 on each frame 232 by pushing orpulling on the front section 234 of each frame 232, thereby pivoting aframe 232 on base 40 so that the customer can easily move from sample tosample without having to pull on the displayed rugs themselves. Asenvisioned herein, the frames 232 of the present invention are capableof rotating up to about 180° relative to the base 40 in an open-bookarrangement to provide a customer with a full view of rugs displayed bythe rug display system 220. In this way, the display assembly of thepresent invention uniquely maximizes rug viewing area for the allotteddisplay area of the showroom.

Referring to FIGS. 7-8 (and 12-13), examples of individual rug clips 60(and 160) which might be used in the rug display system 20 are shown andillustrated. As illustrated in FIGS. 7-8, in one embodiment, the clip 60might be provided as a single piece of spring steel having a normallyclosed bias designed in. In such embodiment, the rug clip 60 may beformed by bending a single piece of spring steel into the general shapeof the clip, heat treating the clip and then post-hitting the clip withappropriate compression force in order to preload (create bias). It isunderstood however, that the rug clip 60 may be constructed from morethan one piece of material (e.g., steel) welded or otherwise securedtogether to form a clip mechanism for securing a rug (e.g. FIG. 12).

In FIG. 7, an exemplary rug clip 60 is illustrated as comprising achannel shaped bracket including a top leg 62, a bottom leg 64 and aconnecting member 66. The connecting member 66 can be configured andbent so as to bias the top leg 62 toward the bottom leg 64 in order tosecurely hold a rug. In addition, the bottom portion of the bottom leg64 may include a plurality of teeth 68 for gripping a rug when the rugis inserted into the rug clip 60. Referring briefly to FIG. 8, a rearperspective view of the rug clip 60 illustrates a plurality of upwardlyangled teeth 68. As best seen in FIG. 8, the bottom portion of thebottom leg 64 comprises four spaced teeth 68 in this example. However,it is understood that the bottom leg 64 of the rug clip 60 couldalternatively comprise any number of teeth, serrations or other grippingelements 68 as required to mount and hold a rug to a frame. In theexemplary embodiments of FIGS. 7-8, the plurality of teeth 68 are biasedagainst the inside surface of top leg 62 and form an acute angle α withthe bottom leg 64.

Referring again to FIG. 7, bottom leg 64 of the rug clip 60 may includetwo bottom leg apertures 80 a and 80 b configured to accept fasteners(e.g., bolts or screws) for mounting the rug clip 60 to a frame.Additionally, the top leg 62 may include one or more access apertures tofacilitate placement and manipulation of the fasteners. In oneembodiment, the apertures 82 a and 82 b would be larger in diameter thanthe apertures 80 a and 80 b so that the fasteners that connect thebottom leg 64 of the rug clip 60 to a frame may be accessed fortightening and/or loosening by a standard tool such as a screwdriver,socket or driver. In another embodiment, the apertures in the bottom leg64 may be larger than those in the top leg 62 so that the rug clip 60can be mounted to a frame in reverse, orientation (i.e., with thegripping teeth or serrations directed inwardly).

In one embodiment, the rug clip 60 is mounted to the frame by placingthe bottom leg 64 of the rug clip 60 against a frame and aligning thebottom leg apertures 80 a and 80 b with predrilled holes in the frame.Once aligned, a fastener may be inserted through the upper top legaperture 82 a to the upper bottom leg aperture 80 a which is alignedwith the predrilled aperture. Depending on the type of fastener, ascrewdriver, socket or fastener driver may be inserted through the uppertop leg aperture 82 a to contact the fastener. The fastener is thentightened into place to secure the rug clip 60 to the frame. These stepsmay be repeated for the lower bottom and top leg aperture 80 b and 82 b.It is understood, however, that the rug clip 60 can be mounted to theframe in a variety of ways including, but not limited to, a weld orproviding a frame configured so that the clips 60 may be removablysecured to it. Removal and replacement may be desired to modify thelocation of clips and/or to replace damaged or broken clips.

In an alternative embodiment, such as that illustrated in FIGS. 12 and13, rug clip 160 may comprise a gripping member or center portion 163and a biasing member 161. Biasing member 161 is shown as having a firsttop leg 162 a and second top leg 162 b and a connecting member 166. Thebiasing member 161 may be comprised of spring steel or other at leasteffectively flexible material which can be configured to provide aninward bias, as will be explained. As illustrated, a single piecebiasing member 161 might be bent to form a central connecting member 166having the downwardly extending first and second top legs. Suchconfiguration might provide a natural bias of the first and second toplegs 162 a and 162 b toward the gripping member 163 in order to securelyhold a rug. In another embodiment, biasing member may be comprised of anumber of individual compartments.

While biasing member 161 is illustrated as having a substantiallyrounded connecting member 166 (to correspond with a rounded framesection 436) associated with each top leg, that need not be the case.Biasing member could likewise be configured to correspond with anyvariety of frame conformation (e.g., square, rectangular, angular orotherwise), or it might not necessarily match the frame shape. Here, arounded configuration is illustrated as possibly advantageous tosimplify the bending process and preloading of biasing force, and tomatch the exemplary rounded frame shape.

In one embodiment, gripping member or center portion 163 may comprisetwo bottom legs 164 a and 164 b. This gripping member might be formed ofa single integral piece of material, or might be provided as severalpieces secured together with, for example, a spot weld (see, e.g. FIG.12). As illustrated, gripping member 163 may further comprise proximalend 165 and distal end 167, respectively, wherein proximal end 165 mayinclude one or more flanges or appendages 169 for mounting the grippingmember 163 to the top section 436 of frame such as by, for example, aweld, rivets or other fasteners. Distal end 167 of gripping member 163may include a plurality of teeth 168 or other gripping element(s) forgripping a rug when the rug is inserted into the rug clip 160. Similarto FIGS. 7-8, the plurality of teeth 168 are pushed or pinched againstthe inside surface of top legs 162 a and 162 b as a result of the inwardbias of the biasing member 161, and tend to form an acute angle α withthe gripping member 163.

In one embodiment, the rug clip 160 is mounted to the frame by securinggripping member 163 in an advantageous location on a section of theframe (e.g. top section 436 as illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13). Biasingmember 161 may then be positioned downward around top section 436 sothat top legs 162 a and 162 b generally are biased toward teeth 168 ofgripping member 163. Biasing member may thereafter be secured to theframe by, for example, a fastener 181 or weld. As an example, afterbiasing member 161 is placed over the frame section (e.g., 436) and inproper biasing orientation relative to the gripping member 163, a metalscrew or rivet (e.g., 181) might be placed through member 161 and intothe frame section to keep biasing member 161 from moving along the frameor otherwise being knocked loose. It is also contemplated that rug clip160 may be removeably secured to frame such a by providing a bracket orgroove (not shown) associated with the frame (e.g., on the underside offrame section 436) for selectively securing the gripping member thereto.For example, a groove or keyway might be formed along the lower parts ofvarious frame sections (e.g., sections 133, 136, 236, 436) to allow forinsertion of a corresponding key or flange 165 of a gripping member 163.In this way, clips could be easily added, removed, or moved as neededfor any particular rug display frame, or to accommodate a custom size orshape of rug.

In yet another alternative embodiment, such as that illustrated in FIGS.14 and 15, rug clip 660 may comprise a gripping member or center portion663, a biasing member 661 and a clamping member 670. Gripping member orcenter portion 663 may comprise two bottom legs 664 a and 664 b similarto that illustrated in FIGS. 12-13 and secured along a central axis A.Similar to FIGS. 7-8 and 12-13, the plurality of teeth 668 (e.g. firstgripping elements) extend outwardly from central axis A and are pushedor pinched against the inside surface of top legs 662 a and 662 b ofbiasing member 661 in use as a result of the inward bias of the biasingmember 661. As illustrated in this example, the angled teeth mightadvantageously tend to form an acute angle α with the gripping member663.

Biasing member 661 is shown as having a first top leg 662 a and secondtop leg 662 b and a connecting member 666 similar to that of FIGS. 12and 13. As will be understood, this configuration provides a generallyinverted U-shaped configuration of biasing member 661 which can becorrespondingly shaped to match a portion of frame (e.g. 636) tofacilitate assembly and use of the clip in a display system. As bestillustrated in FIG. 14, however, biasing member 661 may further comprisean additional pair of teeth or second gripping elements 671 each locatedon first top leg 662 a and second top leg 662 b. Second grippingelements may be cut from first and second top legs of biasing member andextend outwardly from central axis A. In the illustrated embodiment,second gripping elements may extend away from biasing member 661 so asto create a second contact or attachment point to secure additional rugsas described below. Second gripping elements may also extend inwardlytoward central axis A in another embodiment. In addition, it iscontemplated that second gripping elements may be located on clampingmember 670 and extend inward to central axis A.

As illustrated, clamping member 670 may comprise first and second clamparms 672 a and 672 b. Clamping member 670 may be mounted over at least aportion of the biasing member 661 so that first and second clamp arms672 a and 672 b are biased against second gripping elements 671 ofbiasing member 661. In various embodiments, a clamping member mightadvantageously overlie or telescope over a portion of or substantiallyall of the corresponding biasing member. To achieve a desired bias to beexerted by the clamping member in use, clamping member 670 may comprisea press arrangement 674 between first and second clamp arms 672 a and672 b. As used herein, “press arrangement” may be a mechanicalarrangement configured to apply pressure to an article to be held (e.g.,a rug) and toward a gripping element or other apparatus configured tosecure the article. As illustrated in FIGS. 14-15, press arrangement 674may be configured to straddle a frame 636 and in the illustratedembodiment, telescope over at least a portion of frame 636. Suchconfiguration, while not necessary, allows the clamping member 670 toeffectively apply a force at two or more locations of the biasing member(e.g. at the upper portion of first top leg 662 a and second top leg 662b and at second gripping elements 671). As will be understood, thisconfiguration provides a generally inverted U-shaped configuration ofclamping member 670 which can be correspondingly shaped to match aportion of frame (e.g. 636) to facilitate assembly and use of the clipin a display system.

Rug clip 660 may be mounted to the frame by securing gripping member 663in an advantageous location on a section of the frame (such as bysecurement screw 681 or other fastening or adhesive arrangement).Biasing member 661 may then be positioned downwardly around top sectionof frame 636 so that top legs 662 a and 662 b generally are biasedtoward first gripping elements 668 of gripping member 663. Clampingmember 670 may similarly be positioned downwardly around biasing member661 so that first and second clamp arms 672 a and 672 b are biasedtoward biasing member 661. Clamping and biasing members may thereafterbe secured to the frame by, for example, a screw 681 or weld.

As will be appreciated, one advantage of the clips illustrated in FIGS.12-15 is that they can easily accommodate back to back or multiple rugsfor simultaneous display, yet can function well if only a single rug isinserted. For example, referring to FIGS. 13 and 15, one rug could beinserted into clips 160 and 660 by pulling an upper edge of the rug 110upwardly past distal ends 167 and 667 and into the areas 191 and 691between gripping members 163 and 663 and the inside surface of top legs162 b and 662 b. The inward bias of top legs 162 b and 662 b would tendto push the rug against gripping members 163 and 663, and teeth 168 orfirst gripping elements 668 would prevent the rug from easily movingdownwardly. A second rug (not shown) could be similarly inserted on theother side of the clip 160 and 660, with the upper edge of such rugbeing drawn into space 192 and 692 between gripping member 163 and 663and the inner surface of top leg 162 a and 662 a. Because of theeffective double inward bias of biasing member 161 and 661 and thedouble faced gripping member 163 and 663, clips 160 and 660 work equallywell with rugs on either side, or both sides. As will be understood,this unique clip arrangement thereby obviates a need for havingindividual clips for particular display “faces” or sides of a displayrack. Moreover, with regard to the exemplary clip 660 illustrated inFIGS. 14 and 15, additional rugs may be mounted in a similar mannerdescribed above such as within spaces 693 and 694 between the biasingmember 661 and the clamping member 670.

As previously stated, the rug clips 60, 160 and 660 of the presentinvention can be mounted at any location on a frame including, but notlimited to the front section, the top section, the rear section, thebottom section and the crossbar. In FIGS. 6, 12 and 14, once theexemplary rug clips 60, 160 and 660 are mounted to a frame, a rug 110can be secured in the rug clips 60, 160 and 660 by placing the edge of arug 110 up against the teeth (or gripping elements) of the rug clip andthen pushing the rug 110 toward the connecting member 66, 166 and 666.As mentioned, two or more rugs may be mounted (e.g., back to back) fromclips 160 and 660 illustrated in FIGS. 12-15. As the teeth (or grippingelements) are oriented upwardly, the rug 110 may freely slide upwardwithout damaging the rug 110. Furthermore, once in place, the upwardangle or orientation of the teeth (or gripping elements) prevents therug from slipping to the floor as the teeth of the clips grab the backof the rug. The bias of the clips tend to hold the gripping elements(e.g., teeth, serrations, or knurled surface) against the nap of therug. Gravity also tends to engage the gripping elements with the rug tosecure it in place.

The rug may be dismounted and removed from such clips by pulling the rugoutwardly toward the top legs 62, 162 and 662 (and/or clamp arms 672 inFIGS. 14-15). The rug can then be slid out of a clip withoutinterference. Accordingly, a single clerk can conveniently secure a rug110 to, or remove a rug 110 from a frame in the rug display system.Moreover, no independent opening or unclamping of individual rug clipsis required, as upward pulling of a rug away from bottom leg results inan automatic release from the clip.

Another feature of the present invention is that the frames of the rugdisplay system may be easily removed from the base for changing thedisplay and/or placing or removing a rug. The frame may be removed fromthe base by lifting the frame upwardly off of the post of the base.Removability of the frames serves a number of functions includingefficient assembly and disassembly. For example, a clerk may remove aframe from the rug display system in order to secure a rug to, or removea rug from the frame. While it is not required that the frame be removedfrom the base in order to secure a rug to, or remove a rug from theframe, removal of the frame may be desired when a single clerk needs tosecure or remove a heavy rug. In this way, it can be understood that aframe could be placed on the floor for placing a rug on the frame, thenthe frame and rug can be stood up and the frame inserted onto a supportpost on a base 40.

As illustrated in FIG. 9, in situations where removal of a frame formounting a rug thereto is inconvenient or otherwise less desirable, aplurality of rolled rug hangers 400 may be provided for supporting arolled-up rug 110 adjacent the crossbar section 333 of a frame. The rughangers 400 may have a general shape reminiscent to the number “5” andcan be made of flat steel. However, it should be understood that the rughangers may comprise a variety of shapes and can be made of plastic,composite, aluminum and/or any other appropriately strong and durablesubstance. In addition, while FIG. 9 illustrated the rug hangerspositioned on the crossbar 333 of the frame 332, it is understood thatthe rug hangers may be positioned anywhere on the frame including, butnot limited to the top section 336 of the frame 332.

In use, the rug hangers 400 may be positioned on the crossbar 333 bypushing the channel 402 of the rug hanger 400 downward over the upperportions of crossbar 333. In FIG. 9, three rug hangers 400 are providedwith the first rug hanger 400 positioned at about the center of thecrossbar 333 and the remaining two rug hangers 400 positioned adjacentopposite sides of the frame. However, any number of rug hangers 400 maybe positioned at any location along the crossbar 333.

A rolled-up rug to be hung is then positioned in the rug hangers 400,and thereafter a single clerk may maneuver the upper edge of the rug 110into the rug clips 60 as described above. Once the edge of the rug isinserted into the rug clips, the clerk may then remove the remainder ofthe rolled-up rug 110 from the rug hangers 400 and allow the rug 110 todrape downwardly over the hangers 400 and toward the display surface.The clerk may them remove the rug hangers 400 from the rear of the rugby pulling the rug hanger 400 upward and off of the crossbar 333 andtwisting the rug hanger 400 sideways to slide them past crossbar 333.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is that the rug displaysystems may also be shipped partially assembled or disassembled. FIGS.10-11, illustrate exemplary packaging systems for the rug display systemof the present invention. Referring to FIG. 10, a packaging system for adisassembled rug display system is shown and illustrated. The system maycomprise a relatively standard shipping crate 200 generally in the shapeof a box. The crate (e.g., 200) may be sized larger or smaller accordingto the size of the frames intended to be shipped. The crate 200 is alsoillustrated as including a plurality of cradles 210 positioned adjacentto the upper proximate horizontal edge 212, the lower proximatehorizontal edge 214, the upper distal horizontal edge 216 and the lowerdistal horizontal edge 218. In another embodiment, the frame cradles 210can be positioned along the proximate and distal vertical edges of thecrate 200. The same result can be achieved by rotating the crate 200about the X-axis 180°. In another embodiment, the crate 200 may includeframe cradles 210 adjacent to either the upper and lower proximatehorizontal edges 212, 214 or along the upper and lower distal horizontaledges. In one embodiment, each cradle 210 includes a plurality of spacedrecesses 225 for receiving a plurality of frames 32. The recesses 225prevent the frames from contacting one another and maintain apredetermined orientation and spacing of the frames during shipment. Ifdesired, the recesses 225 may include padding for further securing theframes during shipment.

In one embodiment, the recesses 225 of the corresponding frame cradles210 can be vertically aligned to accept and secure the frames 32. Forexample, the recesses 225 of the frame cradles 210 positioned on theupper proximate and distal horizontal edges 212 and 216 are verticallyaligned with the recesses 225 of the frame cradles 210 on the lowerproximate and distal horizontal edges 214 and 218. Moreover, therecesses 225 of the frame cradles 210 positioned on the upper and lowerproximate horizontal edges 212 and 214 can be horizontally aligned withthe recesses 225 of the frame cradles 210 on the upper and lower distalhorizontal edge 216 and 218.

In one embodiment, the crate 200 may include one or more crossbarsupport member 230 positioned against a wall inside the crate. Thecrossbar support member 230 can be made of wood, steel or any otherdurable material. The crossbar support member 230 adds structuralsupport to the crate and can also provide additional lateral support toa plurality of frames within the crate.

Therefore, in accordance with the packaging system for shipping rugdisplay system frames 32 of the present invention, frames 32 may beinserted into the crate 200 by working the frame between a first set ofcorresponding recesses 225, pushing the frame 32 through the crate 200,and working the frame through a second set of corresponding recesses225. Boxes of clips and other accessories may then be placed within theinserted frames and taped, shrinkwrapped or banded in place within thecrate.

The packaging system of the present invention serves multiple functions.First, as previously stated, the packaging system provides a means forshipping a plurality of rug display system frames while minimizingpotential damage to the frames. In addition, the packaging system of thepresent invention provides for easy and efficient loading and unloadingof the packaging system and its contents (e.g., rug display systemframes) from a truck. For example, the crate of the packaging system maybe packed in a warehouse with a plurality of rug display system framesand then loaded onto a truck using a standard forklift. Once the cratebearing the rug display system frames arrives at its destination, asingle person may unload the crate by opening the crate and thenremoving the rug display system frames one at a time. In this way,cranes, lift trucks, loading docks or other specialized equipment is notnecessary for a customer to receive a display system of the presentinvention for installation.

Alternatively, it may be desired to have the rug display system of thepresent invention delivered in assembled or semi-assembled condition,thus saving multiple hours of installation time. Referring to FIGS. 11a-c, a packaging system for an assembled rug display system is shown andillustrated. The display system shown in FIGS. 11 a-c is essentially thesame system shown in FIG. 6. Generally, the packaging system comprisesmultiple bands and blocks used to secure the frames 232 and base 40 sothat the rug display system may be transported as a unit onto a truck orinto a store by use of a pallet jack or other lifting device. Theexemplary packaging system of FIGS. 11 a-c may secure the rug displaysystem in multiple locations. First, the packaging system may include afront section assembly 500 (as also shown in the partial cross-sectionof FIG. 11 b). The front section assembly includes a first securingmember 502 positioned on top of the plurality of bottom sections 231 andadjacent the plurality of front sections 234 of the frames 232. In oneembodiment, the first securing member 502 might comprise a 2″×4″ pieceof wood, but may include steel, pressboard, plastic composite or anyother sufficiently sturdy material. The 2″×4″ 502 extends substantiallythe entire length of the plurality of adjacent bottom sections 231. Asecond securing member 504 is then positioned on bottom of the pluralityof adjacent bottom sections 231 and adjacent the plurality of frontsections 234 of the frames 232. In one embodiment, the second securingmember 504 comprises a 4″×4″ piece of wood, but again may include steel,pressboard, plastic, composite or any other sufficiently sturdymaterial. The 4″×4″ 504 may include a channel 505 on the posteriorsurface for receiving a metal securing band 506 therein. The channelprevents the metal band 506 from moving or contacting the surface shouldthe member 504 extend downward beyond the wheel 254 of the front supportmember 252. The metal band 506 may be wrapped around the securingmembers 502 and 504 with at least a portion of the band positioned inthe channel 506 and then tightened to secure the plurality of frontsections 234 together. If desired, a second metal band 514 may be usedto secure the plurality of crossbar sections 233 and/or other portionsof the assembly “cube”.

The rear section assembly 508 singularly includes a securing member 502positioned on top of the plurality of adjacent bottom sections 231 andadjacent the plurality of rear sections 238 of the frames 232. In thisillustration, the securing member 502 might comprise a 2″×4″ piece ofwood, but may include steel, pressboard, plastic, composite or any othersufficiently sturdy material. As best seen in FIG. 11 c, a plurality ofapertures (e.g., 509) can be drilled into the upper plate 44 of the basefor accepting a bolt or other fastener 510. To prevent the base 40 fromfalling as the rug display system is lifted, a fastener 510 may beinserted into the member 502, in between two adjacent bottom sections231 and through the upper plate aperture and then secured by a nut 512.The base 40 may be secured to the member 502 in more than one locationas necessary to effectively captivate the base and keep it from fallingwhen the rug display system is lifted.

To add support to the packaging system, an X-bracing 516 may bepositioned from corner to corner on the two securing members 502described above. The X-bracing 516 can be made of wood, steel or anyother sufficiently sturdy material to help maintain the integrity anddimensional stability of the packaging system cube as it is shipped. Inaddition, the X-bracing 516 may be secured to a member 502 by a nail518, screw or any other appropriate fastening device.

Rug display system accessories (described above) may also beconveniently secured in either of the packaging systems of FIGS. 10 and11. For example, with respect to the example of FIGS. 11 a-c, thedivider 100 may be positioned on the posts of the base, just as it wouldbe when the rug display system is in assembled condition for operation.FIG. 11 a illustrates the divider 100 mounted in the middle of the base40 for convenient illustration of all accessories. If the rug displaysystem is shipped as illustrated, a block (not shown) may be positionedbetween the gap in the front sections 234 to prevent the front sections234 from swinging into one another. In another embodiment, the divider100 may be mounted to the outermost posts of the base 40.

In addition, components of the accessory display assembly (FIG. 3) canbe broken down and secured in the packaging systems of the presentinvention. For example, in the example of FIGS. 11 a-c, the pole 92 forthe display assembly may also be mounted to a base post. In addition,the extension arm 94 may be turned upside down and positioned within theperimeter of the frames 232 with the brackets 95 of the extension arm 94being mounted to the member 502 by a nail, screw or any otherappropriate fastening device, and with the other end (tubular portion)resting against the inner side of the plurality of frames 232. Themounting bar 96 can similarly be positioned diagonally within theperimeter of the frames 232 as well. As mentioned above, additionalcomponents such as the bumper, rug hangers, fasteners for the base, etc.may by packed in boxes and positioned on the plurality of bottomsections 231. Therefore, all components of the rug display system may besecured together and confined within the packaging cube generallydefined by the perimeter of the plurality of frames 232.

The rug display system may be easily moved or transported by insertingthe legs of a pallet jack or forklift under the bottom sections of therug display system and lifting upward. If desired, a conventional palletmay also be placed under or secured to the bottom sections of the framesfor additional support and guidance.

The packaging system of the present invention serves multiple functions.First, as previously stated, the packaging system of the presentinvention provides for easy and efficient loading and unloading of therug display system from a truck. For example, the entire rug displaysystem, including accessories and components can be lifted to a truckand subsequently to a store by one trip with a forklift, pallet jack orother lifting device. In addition, the packaging system allows anassembled rug display system to be delivered to the customer. Deliveryof an assembled rug display system can save hours of time otherwiseneeded to properly assemble the system.

The foregoing description of the various embodiments of the inventionhas been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. Itis not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to theprecise form disclosed. Many alternatives, modifications and variationswill be apparent to those skilled in the art of the above teaching. Forexample, the rug display system in accordance with the present inventionmay display rugs of varying sizes and shapes in a variety of differentarrangements and can include frames of various sizes and shapes.Accordingly, while some of the alternative embodiments of the rugdisplay system have been discussed specifically, other embodiments willbe apparent or relatively easily developed by those of ordinary skill inthe art. Accordingly, this invention is intended to embrace allalternatives, modifications and variations that have been discussedherein, and others that fall within the spirit and broad scope of theclaims.

1. A rug clip for use in a rug display system comprising: a gripping member having oppositely disposed first gripping elements; a biasing member having a first and second top leg wherein at least one of said top legs further comprises one or more second gripping elements; said biasing member mounted over at least a portion of said gripping member such that one of said first and second top legs is each biased toward a different one of said oppositely disposed first gripping elements; and a clamping member having first and second clamp arms mounted over at least a portion of said biasing member such that said first and second clamp arms are biased toward said second gripping elements of said biasing member.
 2. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 1, wherein said first gripping elements are located adjacent a distal end of said gripping member.
 3. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 1, wherein said first gripping elements comprise a plurality of teeth, wherein some of said teeth are respectively angled toward one of said top legs forming an acute angle between said teeth and said gripping member.
 4. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 1, wherein said second gripping elements comprise a plurality of teeth angled toward one of said first and second clamp arms forming an acute angle between said teeth and said first and second top legs.
 5. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 1, wherein a proximal end of said gripping member comprises at least one attached flange.
 6. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 1, wherein said gripping member comprises two bottom legs secured to one another.
 7. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 1, wherein said biasing member is secured to a frame.
 8. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 1, wherein said clamping member is secured to a frame.
 9. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 1, wherein said gripping member is secured to a frame.
 10. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 1, wherein said biasing member further comprises a connecting member between said first and second top legs.
 11. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 1, wherein said biasing member is provided as a single integral piece.
 12. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 1, wherein said clamping member comprises a press arrangement between said first and second clamp arms configured to apply pressure to said biasing member.
 13. A rug clip for use in a rug display system comprising: a gripping member having first gripping elements, said first gripping elements extending outwardly from a central axis; a biasing member having a first and second top leg wherein at least one of said top legs further comprises one or more second gripping elements, said second gripping elements extending outwardly from said central axis, said biasing member mounted over at least a portion of said gripping member; and a clamping member having first and second clamp arms overlying at least a portion of said biasing member.
 14. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 13, wherein said first and second top legs is each biased toward a different one of said first gripping elements.
 15. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 13, wherein said first and second clamp arms are biased toward said second gripping elements of said biasing member.
 16. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 13, wherein said first and second top legs of said biasing member are connected in a generally U-shaped configuration.
 17. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 13, wherein said first and second clamp arm of said clamping member are connected in a generally U-shaped configuration.
 18. A rug clip for use in a rug display system comprising: a gripping member having first gripping elements; a biasing member having a first and second top leg connected in a generally U-shaped configuration, wherein at least one of said top legs further comprises one or more second gripping elements; said biasing member overlying at least a portion of said gripping member such that one of said first and second top legs is each biased toward a different one of said oppositely disposed first gripping elements; and a clamping member having first and second clamp arms connected in a generally U-shaped configuration and overlying at least a portion of said biasing member such that said first and second clamp arms are biased toward said second gripping elements of said biasing member.
 19. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 18, wherein said first gripping elements extend outwardly from a central axis.
 20. The rug clip for use in a rug display system as in claim 18, wherein said second gripping elements extend outwardly from a central axis. 